#7 Drafting and Design A.A.S Degree (Median Annual Salary – $55,550)
When it comes to real estate development, architects and general contractors get all the attention. However, there are lesser-known design tradespersons who help to translate designs into building specifications for construction crews. These people are drafters, and they get the needed skills to do their jobs through associate degree programs in drafting and design. Drafting and design degree programs prepare students to make technical drawings of building structures, electrical systems, plumbing, and mechanical components for residential and commercial properties. Since sustainability is a requirement for many modern building projects, you’ll likely learn how to depict photovoltaic systems within your building diagrams. Specific courses that you can expect to take during a drafting and design degree program include engineering concepts and methods, introduction to geographic information system, engineering graphics, and computer aided design. You can choose to specialize in areas of drafting and design such as mechanical drafting, architectural drafting, and graphic design. With this degree you’ll find work in multiple sectors such as construction, urban planning, and manufacturing. Outstanding drafting and design programs offer work-study projects or internships that help you to gain real-world experience. Look for ones that have job placement programs.
#8 Plumbing Technology A.S. Degree (Median Annual Salary – $53,910)
If you’re like everyone else, you take running water, flushing toilets, and heated rooms for granted. Plumbers are the tradespeople who make these modern necessities possible for homes and businesses across the globe. Plumbers install and repair the pipes that bring water and gas to buildings. Getting a two-year, associate degree in plumbing is the first step to landing a job in this field. Plumbing degree programs cover the installation and maintenance of plumbing lines and fixtures, water pumps, and sewer lines. You’ll also take classes about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Most plumbing degree programs include these specific courses: – Plumbing technology – Electricity fundamentals – Occupational safety – Plumbing fixture installation While it’s logical to think that you can only take a plumbing degree program in a classroom setting because of the hands-on nature of the subject, there are online plumbing degree programs. The appeal of these degree programs is convenience and flexibility since they feature mobile-friendly and interactive learning platforms that allow you to learn when and wherever you want. Most people opt for traditional classroom training when it comes to getting a plumbing degree. Many schools offer hybrid courses that allow you to take plumbing theory via online platforms and to attend class in person for hands-on training. Plumbing degree programs usually take two years or less to complete. You’ll need a state license to practice plumbing, and good plumbing degree programs include courses and projects that prepare you for your licensing exam. Check the licensing exam elements for your state to see if your chosen plumbing degree program covers those topics.
